Governor-Chancellor Shri Bandaru Dattatraya unveiling the statue of Pandit Lakhmi Chand at Pandit Lakhmi Chand State University of Performing and Visual Arts, Rohtak

Chandigarh, April 28, 2022: Haryana Governor-Chancellor Shri Bandaru Dattatraya has called upon university fraternity and intellectuals of society to ensure opportunities for students from weaker sections of society so that their artistic talent fully develops. It will further strengthen the bond of social harmony.

‘Surya Kavi’ Pandit Lakhmi Chand was also from a poor family, who brought laurels to the country and the state of Haryana with his talent. We must help poor students to grow in their lives. We should never forget our ancient values and original ideas, said Shri Dattatraya while speaking as the Chief Guest at the unveiling ceremony of the statue of Pandit Lakhmi Chand in the premises of PLC State University of Performing and Visual Arts, Rohtak, today.

He also dedicated the audio of the university anthem and unveiled the new monogram of the university. On this occasion, local Lok Sabha MP Dr Arvind Sharma, former BJP Minister Shri Manish Kumar Grover, Vice Chancellor of Pandit Lakhmichand State Performing and Visual Arts University Shri Gajendra Chauhan, MDU Vice Chancellor Prof Rajbir Singh, PGIMS Vice Chancellor Dr Anita Saxena and Pandit Lakhmi Chand’s grandson Shri Vishnu Dutt were present.

Describing Pandit Lakhmi Chand as a great champion of Indian culture, Governor Shri Dattatraya said that he brought international recognition to Indian art and culture through his songs. Haryana Kala Parishad gives Pandit Lakhmi Chand Puraskar every year to encourage litterateurs for their contribution to Haryanvi literature. He said that Indian culture is amply reflected in the works of Pandit Lakhmi Chand.

The Governor-Chancellor said that PLC SUPVA has emerged as an important centre for the promotion of Haryanvi art and culture. An impressive impact of Haryanvi traditions was seen in the artistic works of the university students. The university has carried forward the idea of ‘Local for Vocal’ mooted by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, he said.

Calling upon Vice Chancellors, Shri Dattatraya said that the focus of education should be on new technology and skill development of youth. Entrepreneurial skills should be promoted among students by establishing Incubation Centre, Innovation Centre, Career Counselling Centre and modern labs for which they should take the help of university alumni as well.

Research and innovation should be promoted in universities and practical knowledge should be given to the students, said Shri Dattatraya. He also announced a cash prize of Rs 21,000 for Sahil, a fourth year fine art student of the university, for his excellent paintings. He also interacted with the students of the university and gave success tips related to their career.